In Spite Of Conflicts, Obama Sees A Better Africa Emerging

President Barrack Obama is today sitting down with over 50 African leaders to engage in dialogue that will address issues of shared interest and mutual concern as the first US-Africa summit enters its last day.

Investment, peace and regional stability as well governance issues are on the table.

US and African leaders on Tuesday unveiled $14 billion in commercial deals, part of a campaign to improve on a trade relationship in which the two parties still do little business together.

President Barrack Obama told the forum that he wants more Americans to buy African Products and vice-versa.

Obama said currently, only about 1% of U.S. exports go to Africa.

The corporate commitments announced at the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit reflect a broader effort to catch up with other countries doing business on the continent, especially China, which is now Africa’s leading trading partner.

African leaders are also seeking to alter perceptions that the continent is far more risky than other frontier markets.

But militant conflicts in several parts of the continent and the outbreak of the deadly Ebola disease in West Africa have underscored the challenge of luring investments from the U.S.
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“Even as Africa continues to face enormous challenges, even as too many Africans still endure poverty and conflict, hunger and disease, even as we work together to meet those challenges, we cannot lose sight of the new Africa that’s emerging,” Obama said.